Diabetes affects more than 30 million Americans. It's one of the most common chronic diseases in the United States. According to the American Diabetes Association, the average diabetic spends at least $1,200 annually on diabetes-related expenses. Costs can be even higher without insurance. Family caregivers often struggle to help maintain a diabetic family member's health. Usually, insurance will not cover essential non-medical costs like specialty grocery items or alcohol swabs. But there are ways to manage diabetes without breaking the bank.
Over the past few years, the cost of insulin has steadily increased, which has exceeded the annual inflation rate. This price rise poses a significant threat to people with diabetes, as they may be unable to afford the necessary insulin to survive. Some brand-name insulin products, such as Humalog KwikPen, can cost over $140 at retail, but patients now can purchase generic insulin, such as lispro KwikPen, for approximately $60.
The cost of insulin can vary depending on factors such as the type of insulin, the dosage, and the delivery method (e.g., injection vs. pump). In general, people with diabetes can expect to pay hundreds or even thousands of dollars per month for insulin.
The high cost of insulin has led to concerns about affordability and access for people with diabetes, particularly those uninsured or with high-deductible insurance plans. Some people have resorted to rationing their insulin or even forgoing it altogether, which can lead to serious health complications.
To address this issue, there have been efforts to increase transparency around insulin pricing and promote market competition. Some states have implemented laws that cap the out-of-pocket costs of insulin, and there have been calls for the federal government to take similar action. Additionally, some pharmaceutical companies have introduced lower-cost alternatives to their brand-name insulin products.
Why is diabetes so expensive? The reality is that besides medical supplies like insulin or an insulin pump, there are numerous supplies and non-medical needs to maintain the illness:
Additionally, diabetic Americans may miss out on lost wages, be unable to work full-time, or deal with yearly hospitalizations. The illness can become very expensive over time, and finding discount diabetic supplies is one way to reduce overall costs.
So how can you afford diabetes? Read more for some of the best ways to save on discount diabetic supplies.
You can find affordable diabetic supplies at discount stores such as Sam's Club, Costco, Walmart, Target, etc. These stores often offer discounts of up to 50% off retail prices. If you shop at local stores, you can save money by using coupons and other deals offered by these stores. Many grocery stores, drugstores, and department stores offer printable coupons online.
You can also find affordable diabetic supplies online. Several websites sell inexpensive products for people with diabetes. These sites often offer free shipping as well. Some pharmacies have special discount cards you can apply to online purchases. Also, look into pharmacy loyalty programs. Some diabetic supplies can be found in bulk online:
Because family caregivers often help loved ones purchase medical supplies and groceries, finding the best prices on diabetes supplies will help minimize the financial stress of maintaining the care recipient's overall health.
A drug discount program offers discounts on prescription medications to help make them more affordable for patients. Pharmaceutical companies, non-profit organizations, or government agencies typically offer these programs. There are several ways to locate drug discount programs for diabetes, including:
Drug discount programs can vary widely in their eligibility requirements and the level of savings they offer. Be sure to carefully review the details of any program you are considering and speak with a healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Many communities offer ways to help people with diabetes with free or low-cost items. Check with local hospitals, non-profits, and churches to see if they can help offset the costs of diabetic supplies. Some non-profit assistance programs can help.
Speak with the local office of the aging or a social worker about paying for diabetic supplies if paying for them is too difficult. Homeless diabetic patients may find additional support at area shelters and with the local health department.
Many communities have mutual aid networks for low-income families. Some will give individuals medical supplies or help with co-payments, no questions asked. A notable group is Mutual Aid Diabetes (MAD) which has an online mutual aid request system to connect people with diabetes with those with extra supplies. The government does restrict sharing of certain medical supplies, like insulin, so always vet any mutual aid resource.
Some health insurance companies offer considerable coverage. Medicare and Medicaid will also help significantly with costs like insulin, syringes, insulin pump, and a glucometer. Some health insurance options for diabetes include:
State health insurance differs from one state to another. In many cases, some supplies, like an insulin pump, must be proven medically necessary for insurance to cover them.
Type 1 Diabetics often have access to a broader range of coverage for supplies since they are insulin dependent. Type 2 diabetics may have coverage mainly for medication and glucometer supplies. Coverage relies on the illness's severity and what the patient needs to maintain a good overall A1C level.
Some companies offer discounts, special programs, and free insulin. You can apply on their website for most of these programs:
Diabetes is a very serious chronic illness. While keeping the disease in check involves purchasing countless medical supplies, taking advantage of discount programs, generic insulin, and community programs can help reduce overall costs. Family caregivers can help their loved ones live healthy, vibrant life by assisting them in getting the diabetes care they need.
